LESOTHO AT 60
A Concept Note for an Academic Conference Commemorating Sixty Years of Independence
Organised By
Department of Political and Administrative Studies
National University of Lesotho
Conference Dates
24–25 September 2026
Venue
National University of Lesotho, Roma Campus
1. Background and Introduction
The Kingdom of Lesotho gained independence from Great Britain on 4 October 1966. As in many post‑colonial states, the end of European colonial rule was celebrated as a watershed moment, marking a decisive shift towards self‑governance, sovereignty, and the reclamation of national identity. Uniquely among many African countries, Lesotho’s independence was achieved peacefully, without the violence typically associated with liberation struggles.
This peaceful transition nonetheless carried enormous public expectations, including democratic self‑determination, socio‑economic upliftment, and affirmation of Basotho cultural identity on the global stage. On Independence Day in 1966, Basotho witnessed the formal transition from the British Protectorate of Basutoland to the independent Kingdom of Lesotho through national ceremonies, official flag‑raisings, and cultural celebrations.
Since then, the annual commemoration of Independence Day has become a fixture in the national calendar, offering both celebration and reflection. Sixty years later, in 2026, this anniversary assumes heightened significance. It offers an opportunity not merely to celebrate, but to engage in rigorous, evidence‑based reflection on achievements, losses, and remaining challenges.
Due to its almost entirely homogeneous Basotho population, Lesotho avoided some nation‑building challenges that beset other post‑colonial African states. However, state‑building—the construction of effective, legitimate, and accountable governance institutions—has remained a central concern. The record is mixed, marked by notable achievements alongside persistent challenges.
Among its achievements, Lesotho boasts one of the highest adult literacy rates in Africa, estimated at approximately 80%, reflecting sustained investment in education, including the historic contribution of missionary institutions and the Catholic Church. The country has also made significant progress in women’s political participation, with increased representation in parliament and public office over the past two decades. Regionally and internationally, Lesotho has maintained active membership in the United Nations, Commonwealth, African Union, and SADC, playing a notable diplomatic role during the struggle against apartheid in South Africa.
However, these achievements coexist with enduring structural challenges. Lesotho has experienced chronic political instability, including periodic military intervention in politics—an uncommon occurrence in Southern Africa. Recent years have seen a serious internal security crisis, characterised by rising homicide rates, proliferation of illegal firearms, and violent gang activity.
Economically, Lesotho remains heavily dependent on South Africa for imports, remittances, employment, and trade, constraining sovereign economic policymaking. Youth unemployment, poverty, and inequality continue to undermine the promise of independence.
It is within this complex environment—of measurable progress and persistent structural constraints—that the proposed academic conference is situated. The sixtieth anniversary of independence provides a compelling opportunity for scholars, policymakers, and civil society to engage in critical dialogue about Lesotho’s past, present, and future.
2. Objectives of the Conference
The conference aims to:
- Provide a rigorous, multidisciplinary academic platform for critical assessment of sixty years of independence across political, economic, social, cultural, and security dimensions
- Generate original, evidence‑based scholarly contributions documenting Lesotho’s development trajectory
- Facilitate dialogue between researchers, policymakers, civil society, and development practitioners
- Celebrate and critically examine Basotho cultural identity, national heritage, and resilience
- Produce a body of peer‑reviewed academic papers suitable for publication in a recognised journal
3. Thematic Areas
Proposed thematic areas include:
- Politics and Governance
- Economy and Development
- Youth and Unemployment
- Gender and Women’s Empowerment
- Civil Society and Democracy
- Church, Education, and Social Development
- National and Public Security
- Culture, Identity, and National Heritage
4. Publication Pathway
The organising committee will identify a credible peer‑reviewed journal or pursue a special edited volume with a reputable academic publisher. Authors of accepted abstracts will be informed of the selected publication outlet prior to full paper submission.
All manuscripts will undergo double‑blind peer review in accordance with international academic publishing standards.
5. Submission Guidelines
Contributions should be submitted as:
- An abstract of no more than 250 words
- A short biography of 100 words
Submissions should be emailed to:
[email protected]
Submissions must clearly indicate:
- The appropriate sub‑theme
- Institutional affiliation
Upon acceptance of abstracts, presenters will be required to submit:
- 10‑page presentation slides, and
- A full manuscript of 6,000–8,000 words, inclusive of footnotes and endnotes but exclusive of references and appendices
6. Important Dates
- Submission of abstracts: 31 May 2026
- Notification of acceptance: 12 June 2026
- Conference dates: 24–25 September 2026
7. Contact Information
All enquiries regarding abstract submissions, registration, sponsorship, and general conference matters should be directed to:
Conference Secretariat
Email: [email protected]
Tel: +266 6267 0959
We look forward to welcoming scholars, researchers, practitioners, and public intellectuals to Roma as we collectively mark, reflect upon, and reimagine sixty years of Lesotho’s sovereign journey.
Khotso. Pula. Nala.